Admiralty Island in Southeast Alaska lies about halfway between the state capital of Juneau and the island town of Sitka. About 60 miles southwest of Juneau, this island has far, far more bears than people. This “Fortress of the Bear” has over 1600 brown bears and is a thrilling place to visit just to see the animals. So, head to Admiralty Island in Southeast for an Alaskan bear viewing adventure.
Admiralty Island lies in Southeast Alaska about halfway between Juneau and Sitka in the Alexander Archipelago. It is about 90 miles long and 35 miles wide.
Admiralty Island is a 3 and a half hour boat ride from Juneau or a short 20 minute small plane flight. This place is popular with outdoor adventure enthusiasts... and those who enjoy hanging out with bears.
An estimated 1,600 brown bears inhabit Admiralty Island, which is also known for dense populations of bald eagles and Sitka black-tailed deer. The wildlife far out number the people in this part of the world.
The village Angoon has about 500 residents and sits on the West side of the island. There are lodgings, bear viewing tours and lots of fishing in the area. The name Angoon roughly translates to "isthmus town."
The island is know in Tlingit as Xootsnoowú, which translates to "Fortress of the Bears." This spot has been known for it's abundance of wildlife and having less rain than elsewhere in the region since time immemorial.
Bears are happy and comfortable here with abundant salmon runs in June and July and no natural predators on the island. The Pack Creek Brown Bear Viewing Area allows visitors to see the bear eating fish in relative safety.
The moss covered forests are lush and beautiful on the island, but beware at every turn for large, imposing bears to be lounging, sleeping, or eating salmon.
The island is covered in dangerous wild bears, but that only adds to the attraction for many visitors. Head here to see interesting animals and enjoy the fantastic fishing on Admiralty Island in Alaska.
